A dedicated and visionary HR professional from the Philippines has been heralded as one of the esteemed top 50 HR professionals at the HRME Awards 2024. This significant recognition underscores Airene Joy Diego innovative leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence in human resources management at BM Hotels & Resorts, where she has been instrumental as the Cluster HR Manager.
The HRME Awards 2024 stand as a beacon of excellence, celebrating the individuals who have showcased exceptional skills, leadership, and transformative impacts in the HR sector. Amidst a competitive pool of nominees across various industries within the MENA Region, Airene’s poignant journey of resilience, dedication, and strategic foresight distinguished her as a leading figure in the field.
In an enlightening interview with The Global Filipino Magazine, Airene delved into her inspiring backstory, marked by personal trials and a relentless drive to support her family and achieve professional success.
“From a young age, following my father’s passing, I found myself in the challenging role of breadwinner for my three siblings. This responsibility shaped my early career decisions and instilled in me a work ethic and determination that I carry to this day,” she shared, reflecting on her initial years of juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet.
Airene’s transition from various roles in the hospitality sector to becoming a celebrated HR leader in the UAE is a narrative of perseverance, strategic learning, and constant growth.
“Each step of my journey, from welcoming guests as a front desk agent to my current role, has been filled with learning opportunities that have allowed me to refine my approach to HR management,” she noted, emphasizing her academic pursuits and practical application of HR principles.
Highlighting her unique leadership qualities, Airene pointed out, “My journey has equipped me with a blend of resilience, adaptability, and empathy, making me keenly aware of the challenges and nuances within organizational dynamics. These experiences have cultivated a leadership style that prioritizes inclusivity, strategic alignment of HR initiatives with business goals, and a commitment to fostering a culture of growth and opportunity.”
Under Airene’s stewardship, BM Hotels & Resorts has seen the implementation of various groundbreaking initiatives aimed at enhancing the employee experience. These have ranged from comprehensive recognition programs that celebrate employee achievements to the development of cross-training and professional growth opportunities, alongside initiatives aimed at promoting work-life balance and supporting employee well-being.
“These initiatives are reflective of our commitment to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, supported, and empowered,” Airene articulated.
As for the future of HR, Airene expressed enthusiasm for the potential shifts and challenges on the horizon, particularly in relation to remote work, artificial intelligence, and the ongoing emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“These emerging trends present an exciting opportunity for HR professionals to lead the charge in adopting innovative practices that not only enhance organizational effectiveness but also contribute to creating more inclusive, flexible, and employee-centered workplaces,” she stated.
Offering sage advice to those aspiring to make their mark in the HR field, Airene emphasized the importance of lifelong learning, practical experience, and the cultivation of a robust professional network.
“To thrive in the dynamic field of HR, one must be committed to continuous improvement, be adaptable to the ever-changing business landscape, and above all, remain passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others,” she advised.